Older Sisters, Younger Brothers … by Sarah Holman

I am the oldest in my home. I have four younger sisters and one younger brother. Yes, my poor brother is outnumbered and is the only boy. Being the older sister of a brother that is quickly becoming a man can be hard at times. As the oldest sometimes I need/want to be in charge. However, my brother is in the process of becoming a man and getting ready to lead his own home one day. So what are we supposed to do? Here are ten things I have learned about being a big sister to a growing brother.

• Treat him as an equal. Let him into your decision-making; maybe even let him make the decision. Treating your brother like a child is the worst thing you can do to him.

• When he starts acting up, instead of dealing him like a small child, confront him gently and tell him what is bothering you. If he doesn’t listen, I have found that is better to let the matter drop and have my dad take care of it.

• Work hard not to embarrass your brother. If he doesn’t like to be hugged in public, don’t do it. If he doesn’t like you to tell funny stories about him, humor him. It is better to keep your brother on your good side.

• Give him some space when he is with his friends. Don’t always try to be in on his conversations or hang with his friends. Doing this occasionally isn’t a problem, but you can become a nuisance if you don’t give them some space.

• When you brother seems to be troubled by something but doesn’t want to talk, let him know you are there. Often times they just need to know you care.

• If you brother starts talking, you need to stop. Your brother needs you to listen more than he needs your advice and often, if you talk too much, they will stop.

• Encourage your brother as much as you can. Even if he is in one of his “moods”, he needs to know that he does something right.

• Laugh with your brother as much as you can. Serious conversation is important, but sometimes the best thing that you can do is have fun together.

• Let your brother be a gentleman. Never deny him the privilege of opening a door or carry a package.

• Pray for him daily. There is nothing that we can do that does more.

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